How to Choose a Travel Stroller

If you travel frequently or if your daily walks involve a quick out-and-back walk and a lot of visits to the local park you should consider purchasing a lightweight, packable stroller. They are easy to fold and fit in trunks, trains, buses and planes.

The Nuna Trvl folds down to a compact size and fits in the overhead bin of many airplanes. It's also very simple to assemble and comes with amazing features, like a simple, adjustable reclining seat.

Easy to Assemble

The stroller is simple to put together and also very simple to use. The frame opens and folds down with one hand and the seat reclines in two different positions. It also has a bumper bar that slides off and on with ease, and the handlebar looks and feels good, too. However, the lack of storage space means parents will need to carry a huge diaper bag or wrap it around the handle (against the advice of a professional).

This lightweight travel stroller makes sharp turns and rolls effortlessly on any surface. It has larger foam-filled wheels than those of some other models we tested which gives it a bit more bounce and more stability. Some parents have complained that the tires are not durable.

The stroller is compact enough to fit into the overhead bins of many planes, and Lightweight Stroller weighs just 13 pounds. Its minimalist design means it comes with a few extra options, but it's a good option for frequent travelers. It's important to note, however, that collapsible strollers are considered "carry-on" baggage and could require checking when your airline has strict baggage restrictions.

If you're a frequent traveler, it might be beneficial to purchase a stroller with more advanced features and a higher price. These strollers that are more expensive typically include more storage options like large underseat bins and are simpler to put together and disassemble. A lot of these strollers come with adjustable harnesses and other safety features you might not find on less basic models. Check with your airline to determine what their policies are regarding strollers, and follow them to the letter. It is also important to read the stroller's manual and especially the sections related to safety. Particularly, make sure to understand how to fix the straps and always use them correctly. Also, be sure to use your stroller only in an appropriate pace and to not leave your child unattended. This will decrease the risk of injury in case your stroller accidentally tips over or veers.

Easy to Fold

A quality stroller for travel should be able to fold into a compact, easily able package. Some models do this well, like the lightweight JOOVY TRVL, which folded in just four seconds during our tests and is able to stand upright in its collapsed state. This makes it easy to store and carry around in a trunk or closet.

The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is another stroller that folds up easily and weighs less than 17 pounds. It also has an enormous underseat storage bin that can fit a large backpack or diaper bag. The reversible footrest can also be used as a handle to collapse the stroller. This feature was a real advantage during our tests, but unfortunately it also exposed the stroller to damage from the airline when one of our editors failed to close it while taking the stroller for her flight. The baggage handler snapped off the footrest, and the UPPAbaby guarantee won't cover airline-related damage.

Unlike umbrella strollers, most of the other strollers we've looked at utilize a variety of hinges and joints to fold into smaller, more compact size. The UPPAbaby G-Luxe, for instance, folds in less than three seconds and stands up after. However the button/ring combination isn't always easy, and you have to make sure you are timing it correctly.

Think about how the stroller could be locked into its compacted, closed position. Some models require you pull down a lever or handle near the rear wheels, while others have red straps that must be connected. It's a good idea read the owner's manual for details about each model's locking mechanism and how it functions.

If you encounter a stroller that is difficult to close, try using a product such as baby oil or WD-40 for lubricating the joints and connections. If this doesn't work, you can contact the manufacturer or a stroller service. However, don't force it; forcing a stroller to close that's not meant to be closed can cause damage or injuries to you and your child.

Easy to carry

If you're planning a day of running errands or a family vacation it's crucial to have easy access to your stroller. Travel strollers are compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and carry. They can be stored in your car, or in your home closet. Some models even come with bags for storage to make it easy for transport and security.

Before you decide on a stroller for travel take into consideration how you plan to use it. Do you intend to use it on road trips, on airplane trips or in your daily life? This will help you narrow down your options. You can save time and energy by choosing a stroller for travel that is compatible with car seats if you are traveling with children. Consider a model that has an extra large rear seat for more comfort and legroom, especially if you have children.

Check with your airline to ensure that the stroller you choose will fit in their overhead bins. Many airlines will gate check strollers if they're too big to fit into the cabin. Others will send them to the hold if they exceed their baggage allowance.

If you'll be using your travel stroller frequently opt for a model with wheels that are smaller and more durable than the ones on traditional strollers. The smaller wheels are easier to maneuver and less likely to be damaged or punctured. You might want to consider adding a pair of wheel covers to provide additional protection.

Invest in a lock in case you intend to take your stroller unattended to the beach or other public locations. Attaching a portable umbrella onto your stroller will offer additional sun protection. You can also clip a utility tote to the handlebar for shopping hands-free or to carry an aloe vera bottle. Also, a set of carabiners at the front of your stroller is an excellent way to keep essentials like water bottles and snacks at hand.

Easy to store

The most reliable strollers for travel can be easily maintained and stored. To keep your stroller clean and ready for use, start by vacuuming all surfaces to get rid of dust and crumbs. If there are any stains, a damp cloth with mild detergent and warm water will be able to remove them. A toothbrush is helpful in places that are difficult to reach. A damp cloth is enough for parts that are not made of fabric, like the wheels and handlebars. It is essential to grease these moving parts to prevent rust.

Some travel strollers like the chit-chat lightweight stroller have a tray for parents to keep their personal items, and two or more cup holders. This makes it easier to carry your essentials on the go. Certain models come with a extensive tray for parents that comes with a slot for a tablet or laptop. These features not only aid parents in keeping their lives organized, but they can also ease the stress of long journeys.

Another factor to consider when selecting a stroller for travel is its ability to fold up and fit in small spaces, like an airplane overhead bin or on public transport. Because of this, many parents choose strollers that fold up and fit into its own bag instead of having to be checked at the gate with baggage.

When you are evaluating strollers based on their storage capacity, make sure to take into consideration the space you have at home, too. If you have a small amount of room, a smaller travel stroller might be the best option. However, if you plan on frequent excursions that require the stroller to be transported by car or public transportation the larger model with better performance for everyday use and storage could be better suited.

Some strollers are offered as part of a travel system which includes a car seat. These can be purchased at the same price or less than buying the products separately. This is a great option however it is essential to keep in mind that the quality of strollers that are included in these bundles is likely to be less than standalone models. We recommend that you only look at these options as a last resort.